What Should I Look for in a Lender?

In addition to being SBA-approved, the lender’s familiarity with the small business market (your needs and challenges) and their ability to provide value-add services above and beyond loan processing is also something to look for when selecting a bank.

Depending on your needs and values, here are some questions to ask a potential SBA-lender:

What are their loan processing times?

How experienced are their SBA loan experts? Are they dedicated exclusively to the SBA loan market?

Are they familiar with your industry and have they worked with similar businesses in the past?

Can they give you strategic advice beyond the financials, even after the loan has closed?

How accessible are their staff? What are their work/communication methods?